A sketch by Auguste Bartholdi of the Statue of Liberty as a Lighthouse circa 1880 National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM The Early Stages In 1865, a French political intellectual and anti-slavery activist named Edouard de Laboulaye proposed that a statue representing liberty be built for the United States.

This monument would honor the United States’ centennial of independence and the friendship with France. French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi supported de Laboulaye’s idea and in 1870 began designing the statue of “Liberty Enlightening the World.” While Bartholdi was designing the Statue, he also took a trip to the United States in 1871.

During the trip, Bartholdi selected Bedloe’s Island as the site for the Statue. Although the island was small, it was visible to every ship entering New York Harbor, which Bartholdi viewed as the “gateway to America.” In 1876, French artisans and craftsmen began constructing the Statue in France under Bartholdi’s direction. An illustration of crates containing the Statue of Liberty moving from the French Navy ship Isère to lighters. The lighters were then transported to Bedloe’s Island. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM To the United States After the Statue was presented to Levi P Morton, the U.S. An illustration of the “rise” of the Statue of Liberty from Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper, October 17, 1885. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM Assembly Once the pedestal was completed in 1886, the Statue was reassembled with surprising speed by a fearless construction crew – many of whom were new immigrants.

1. The first piece of the Statue to be reconstructed was Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel’s iron framework.
2. The rest of the Statue’s elements followed without the use of scaffolding – all construction materials were hoisted up by steam driven cranes and derricks.
3. In order to sculpt the Statue’s skin Eiffel used the repoussé technique developed by Eugene Viollet-le-Duc.

This technique was the process of molding light-weight copper sheets by hammering them onto the Statue’s hallowed wooden framework. The last section to be completed was the Statue of Liberty’s face which remained veiled until the Statue’s dedication. Although Fort Wood remained on Bedloe’s Island, it was not an obstacle in the design, construction, or reassembly of the Statue of Liberty. The Statue amidst smoke from a gun salute during the Statue’s unveiling on October 28, 1886. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM Unveiled On October 28, 1886, the statue of “Liberty Enlightening the World” was officially unveiled. The day’s wet and foggy weather did not stop some one million New Yorkers from turning out to cheer for The Statue of Liberty.
A sketch by Auguste Bartholdi of the Statue of Liberty as a Lighthouse circa 1880 National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM The Early Stages In 1865, a French political intellectual and anti-slavery activist named Edouard de Laboulaye proposed that a statue representing liberty be built for the United States.

This monument would honor the United States’ centennial of independence and the friendship with France. French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi supported de Laboulaye’s idea and in 1870 began designing the statue of “Liberty Enlightening the World.” While Bartholdi was designing the Statue, he also took a trip to the United States in 1871.

During the trip, Bartholdi selected Bedloe’s Island as the site for the Statue. Although the island was small, it was visible to every ship entering New York Harbor, which Bartholdi viewed as the “gateway to America.” In 1876, French artisans and craftsmen began constructing the Statue in France under Bartholdi’s direction. An illustration of crates containing the Statue of Liberty moving from the French Navy ship Isère to lighters. The lighters were then transported to Bedloe’s Island. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM To the United States After the Statue was presented to Levi P Morton, the U.S. An illustration of the “rise” of the Statue of Liberty from Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper, October 17, 1885. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM Assembly Once the pedestal was completed in 1886, the Statue was reassembled with surprising speed by a fearless construction crew – many of whom were new immigrants.

• The first piece of the Statue to be reconstructed was Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel’s iron framework.
• The rest of the Statue’s elements followed without the use of scaffolding – all construction materials were hoisted up by steam driven cranes and derricks.
• In order to sculpt the Statue’s skin Eiffel used the repoussé technique developed by Eugene Viollet-le-Duc.

This technique was the process of molding light-weight copper sheets by hammering them onto the Statue’s hallowed wooden framework. The last section to be completed was the Statue of Liberty’s face which remained veiled until the Statue’s dedication. Although Fort Wood remained on Bedloe’s Island, it was not an obstacle in the design, construction, or reassembly of the Statue of Liberty. The Statue amidst smoke from a gun salute during the Statue’s unveiling on October 28, 1886. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM Unveiled On October 28, 1886, the statue of “Liberty Enlightening the World” was officially unveiled. The day’s wet and foggy weather did not stop some one million New Yorkers from turning out to cheer for The Statue of Liberty.

How many years did it take to build the Statue of Liberty?

It took nine years to build the Statue of Liberty in France, with construction ending in 1885. Then, it had to be disassembled and shipped to New York City. Once it arrived in America and its pedestal was ready, it took four months to rebuild the statue. What Is the Statue of Liberty Made Out Of?

When was the Statue of Liberty built exact date?

Statue of Liberty Liberty Enlightening the World
Location	Liberty Island New York City
Coordinates	40°41′21″N 74°2′40″W  /  40.68917°N 74.04444°W Coordinates : 40°41′21″N 74°2′40″W  /  40.68917°N 74.04444°W
Height	Height of copper statue (to torch): 151 feet 1 inch (46 meters) From ground level to torch: 305 feet 1 inch (93 meters)
Dedicated	October 28, 1886
Restored	1938, 1984–1986, 2011–2012
Sculptor	Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi
Visitors	3.2 million (in 2009)
Governing body	National Park Service
Website	www,nps,gov /stli
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Type	Cultural
Criteria	i, vi
Designated	1984 (8th session )
Reference no.	307
Region	Europe and North America
U.S. National Monument
Designated	October 15, 1924
Designated by	President Calvin Coolidge
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
Official name	The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World
Designated	September 14, 2017
Reference no.	100000829
New Jersey Register of Historic Places
Official name	Statue of Liberty National Monument, Ellis Island and Liberty Island
Designated	May 27, 1971
Reference no.	1535
New York City Landmark
Type	Individual
Designated	September 14, 1976
Reference no.	0931

The Statue of Liberty ( Liberty Enlightening the World ; French: La Liberté éclairant le monde ) is a colossal neoclassical sculpture on Liberty Island in New York Harbor in New York City, in the United States, The copper statue, a gift from the people of France, was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and its metal framework was built by Gustave Eiffel,

• The statue was dedicated on October 28, 1886.
• The statue is a figure of Libertas, a robed Roman liberty goddess,
• She holds a torch above her head with her right hand, and in her left hand carries a tabula ansata inscribed JULY IV MDCCLXXVI (July 4, 1776 in Roman numerals ), the date of the U.S.
• Declaration of Independence,

A broken shackle and chain lie at her feet as she walks forward, commemorating the recent national abolition of slavery. After its dedication, the statue became an icon of freedom and of the United States, seen as a symbol of welcome to immigrants arriving by sea.

• Bartholdi was inspired by a French law professor and politician, Édouard René de Laboulaye, who is said to have commented in 1865 that any monument raised to U.S.
• Independence would properly be a joint project of the French and American peoples.
• The Franco-Prussian War delayed progress until 1875, when Laboulaye proposed that the French finance the statue and the United States provide the site and build the pedestal.

Bartholdi completed the head and the torch-bearing arm before the statue was fully designed, and these pieces were exhibited for publicity at international expositions. The torch-bearing arm was displayed at the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia in 1876, and in Madison Square Park in Manhattan from 1876 to 1882.

1. Fundraising proved difficult, especially for the Americans, and by 1885 work on the pedestal was threatened by lack of funds.
2. Publisher Joseph Pulitzer, of the New York World, started a drive for donations to finish the project and attracted more than 120,000 contributors, most of whom gave less than a dollar (equivalent to $30 in 2021).

The statue was built in France, shipped overseas in crates, and assembled on the completed pedestal on what was then called Bedloe’s Island. The statue’s completion was marked by New York’s first ticker-tape parade and a dedication ceremony presided over by President Grover Cleveland,

How old is the Statue of Liberty today 2022?

This Day in History, October 28th, 2022 – “Statue of Liberty” By | on October 28, 2022 By R.J. Von Mayer

The CAST 11 Podcast Network is made possible by the 2022 Ultimate Holiday Guide. Promote your next event or holiday offering in the Ultimate Holiday Guide by calling Elicia at: 928-642-3552.

It was just 136 years ago today, October 28, 1886, that one of America’s National Treasures was dedicated. Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, and built by Gustave Eiffel, of Eiffel Tower fame, this 151-foot and one-inch copper behemoth are known as the Statue of Liberty.

On this date, hundreds of thousands of Americans and foreign dignitaries celebrated the unveiling of the Statue of Liberty, which had a French flag covering her face. Dedicated by President Grover Cleveland, who was once the governor of New York, the celebration created many traditions that are still practiced today.

For instance, as the parade moved closer to Bedloe’s island, where the Statue of Liberty is located, they passed by the New York stock exchange, as the traders threw out their ticker tapes in celebration, the idea stuck, and now New York has ticker tape parades.

1. The actual dedication was very chaotic, boats of all sorts crowded the harbor, and the unveiling happened in mid-speech, as a break in speaking by Senator William Evarts was mistaken as the end of his speech, the signal to let lose the flag.
2. The weather was not cooperative either, for the planned fireworks celebration had to be delayed until November 1st.

In the end, despite all the challenges from building to shipping and rebuilding, the job was done. Though the statue looks a little different than what it did 136 years ago, remember, she’s copper, and copper tarnishes, which gives her the light green color of today, imagine having been back then with that bright copper look? 136 years ago today, Lady Liberty lit the night, and the world seemed a little brighter than before.

How many months did it take to build the Statue of Liberty?

2. WHEN THE STATUE OF LIBERTY WAS BUILT – The Statue of Liberty was built starting from 1875, in Paris, and later was sent to the United States in 1885. The statue, practically, was assembled directly in New York, but before her head and torch were exhibited in the Jardins du Tracadéro (Gardens of the Trocadéro) in Paris.

Why did French give US Statue of Liberty?

“Give me your tired, your poor,
 Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
 The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me.” – — Emma Lazarus The Statue of Liberty, a gift from the people of France, made its way to America on June 17, 1885.

Is there really 3 Statue of Liberty?

Bonus: The biggest sample – You can find a 1:1 scale replica of the Flame of Liberty above the entrance to the Pont de l’Alma bridge on the Right Bank. The replica has become an unofficial memorial to Princess Diana, who died in the tunnel below. So there you have it, eight replicas and one flame replica. But wait, there’s more! In fact, there are many, many more. You can find replicas of the Statue of Liberty all around France including a 12-metre high version in Colmar, a terracotta replica in Lyon, and one in Bordeaux that was seized by Nazis in World War Two (and replaced many years later).

How many years did it take for the Statue of Liberty to turn green?

Reclothing the First Lady of Metals – Repair Concerns For the first hundred years, Lady Liberty stood proud and tall, but not without those who wanted to reclothe her prematurely. In 1906, for example, Congress appropriated $62,000 to paint her. Why? Because some politicians were distressed that she had turned green. Statue of Liberty with Fully Developed Patination Fortunately, the plan failed. At the turn of the century, it took longer to form the color we see today’s New York air, it would take about 10 years to achieve, but at the turn of the century, it was nearly 25 years before the patina was full-blown.

• And, America loved the blue-green look of the Lady.
• In fact, in a 1925 editorial, the New York Sun said: “Salt air has given ‘Miss Liberty’ her present sea-green complexion, so often remarked from passing liners.
• Deep-sea winds brawling up the Narrows from Sandy Hook have oxidized her copper and provided a weatherproof coating, which, her custodians say, will make her last forever or as long as stone and metal hold together.” However, in 1937, on the 50th anniversary of the statue, there would have to be repairs made to the stone.

Water had been seeping into the pedestal. As a result, the WPA constructed a 250-foot copper apron (a kind of cap flashing) over the pedestal. As the maintenance manager said at the time: “In the future, Miss Liberty’s feet will be kept dry with this protective coating.” Statue Base with the Added Apron Now as her first centennial approached, there were about a dozen reasons why our First Lady of Metals needed to be reclothed. They included considerations for visitors’ access and comfort, safety, appearance, and, of course, needed repairs. The most important of the repairs related to corrosion and included:

The interior of copper skin. Weakening of support structure for the arm holding the torch. Deterioration of the torch, itself. Corrosion of the iron armature, and in particular, where it was attached to the copper skin. And, the exterior copper skin.

Skeleton with Call-outs for Repair Items In 1984, Peter Dessauer, the historical architect for the National Park Service who led the restoration project, said, that “despite deterioration of other metals, the copper skin of the Statue of Liberty has remained virtually intact.” But repairs were needed. Detail of Interior Corrosion To strip away the old coatings (an estimated 10 layers), the surfaces were first broken down with liquid nitrogen at minus 350ºF, and then blasted at 50 psi with 100 tons of coarse-grain sodium bicarbonate. The method left no corrosive by-product. Interior Repair with Liquid Nitrogen The puddled-iron was blasted with an aluminum oxide abrasive, after which an inorganic water-based zinc primer was applied as a rust inhibitor. That was followed by a polyurethane top coat to provide graffiti protection. Blasted with Aluminum Oxide : Reclothing the First Lady of Metals – Repair Concerns

Are there two Statues of Liberty in the US?

There are two genuine statues and several lesser versions of the Statue of Liberty. The original and most famous is the one located on Liberty Island, a gift from the French to America.

How long will Statue of Liberty last?

Coverage – The Statue of Liberty is featured in The Bodies Left Behind, The show introduce the history of the Statue of Liberty in 100 years after people. It was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of America. The Statue of Liberty is holding the second torch since the original was replaced in the 1980s during a massive restoration period.

• But beneath her copper skin of a few millimeters thick, the skeleton is beginning to disintegrate.
• Steven Ross stated that the steel straps that hold the copper to the steel framework would pull away, along with the rivets which could pull away over a period of 100 to 200 years.
• The fate of Statue of Liberty is revealed in 300 years after people when it suffers a fatal relapse of galvanic corrosion, an old complaint.

This cause the pieces to fall to the bottom of the New York Harbor, which is now flooded parts of the Liberty Island. The first to fall is the torch bearing right arm which smashed into to the pedestal, then the other parts quickly follow, including the face.

Is Statue of Liberty a boy or a girl?

Frequently Asked Questions About the Statue of Liberty – Statue Of Liberty National Monument (U.S. National Park Service) What is the Statue of Liberty made of? The Statue of Liberty is made of copper 3/32 in. (2.4 millimeters) thick, the same as two U.S.

• Pennies put together.
• Why is the Statue green? The Statue’s copper has naturally oxidized to form its familiar “patina” green coating.
• This patina is as thick, in many places, as the copper behind it and is protecting the copper from naturally wearing away.
• How tall is the Statue of Liberty? The Statue is 305ft.1in.

from the ground to the tip of the flame. It is the equivalent height of a 22-story building. In 1886, it was the tallest structure in New York. See more Is the Statue of Liberty an image of a man or woman? Classical images of Liberty have usually been represented by a woman.

• The Statue of Liberty’s face is said to be modeled after the sculptor’s mother.
• Is the torch open? The torch has been closed since the “Black Tom” explosion of July 30, 1916, which was one of the largest acts of sabotage to our nation prior to the event of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
• Many people think they’ve been there and confuse it with climbing a spiral staircase which goes to the crown.

National Park Service staff must climb a narrow 40ft. ladder in order to maintain the floodlights which light the torch. Do you have questions about pedestal, monument and crown access? The ferry company should be contacted regarding advance tickets, confirmations, monument access pass availability.

• You can reach them at: 877-LADY TIX for advance tickets and monument access passes or on line at: Can I purchase food or bring my own to the park? You can do either.
• A food & beverage concessions are located on Liberty Island and Ellis Island or you can bring your own.
• Large coolers will not be allowed through security screening) Food & Beverage Concessionaire (Evelyn Hill, Inc.

– 212 363-3180). Which direction does she face? The Statue of Liberty faces Southeast and was strategically placed inside of Fort Wood which was a perfect base for the Statue. The Statue’s position was also perfect for ships, entering the harbor, to see her as a welcoming symbol.

Does the Statue of Liberty get struck by lightning? Yes! Although the Statue is grounded through the massive concrete and granite base she stands on; the Statue gets struck many times each year. Just how many is not known. The Statue’s height and the conductive material she’s made of, copper, makes it a structure of choice for lightning strikes.

What does the torch represent? The torch is a symbol of enlightenment. The Statue of Liberty’s torch lights the way to freedom showing us the path to Liberty. Even the Statue’s official name represents her most important symbol “Liberty Enlightening the World”.

• The Statue’s current replacement torch, added in 1986, is a copper flame covered in 24K gold.
• It is reflective of the sun’s rays in daytime and lighted by 16 floodlights at night.
• The original torch was removed in 1984 and is currently inside the Statue of Liberty Museum.
• What is written on the Statue’s tablet? The tablet of law, held in the Statue’s left hand, has the date of American Independence July 4, 1776, written on it in Roman numerals (July IV, MDCCLXXVI) What do the seven spikes on the Statue’s crown represent ? The rays represent a radiant halo, also called an “aureole.” Is the Statue in New York or New Jersey? The Statue of Liberty is on Liberty Island, federal property administered by the National Park Service, located within the territorial jurisdiction of the State of New York.

A pact between New York and New Jersey, ratified by Congress in 1834, declared this issue. Can I dock my personal boat or vessel on the island? No. Docking of private vessels is not permitted! Visitors can only arrive at the island via the contracted ferry concession service presently in place.

Are Pets Allowed In the Park? No, pets are not permitted on the ferry system or in the park itself. Documented service/assist animals are exempt from this regulation. If I take the ferry from one side, must I return to that side? Yes. Ferries depart from both the State of New York and New Jersey. The side you start from is where you should return to.

If not, you may be forced to find alternate ways back due to crowding or ticket office closures. Is the Statue of Liberty on Ellis Island? No. The park is comprised of two separate islands, Liberty Island and Ellis Island. The Statue of Liberty is on Liberty Island.

Ellis Island, the former federal immigration station, is currently a national museum of immigration. Can I use my National Park Pass when visiting this park? No. National Park passes are valid at parks that charge an entrance fee. There is no entrance fee for Liberty and Ellis Islands because they are are fee exempt by law.

Transportation fee (ferry) does not apply to the pass. More information or to order National Park Passes at: : Frequently Asked Questions About the Statue of Liberty – Statue Of Liberty National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)

Why can’t you go up the Statue of Liberty anymore?

Why can’t we go up the Statue of Liberty’s torch? NYCurious | amNewYork By Posted on Sign up for our to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams This is part of our series NYCurious, where we answer your questions about the city. Tweet or your queries to us at @amNewYork, with #NYCurious.

While the gleaming gold of the Statue of Liberty’s torch is a wonder to behold, no one can get inside and see what can only be breathtaking views of the city. It can be disappointing to those who don’t know it’s off limits, but there’s a very good reason for it. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not closed off because of structural damage caused by years of wear and tear — it’s thanks to an act of sabotage by Germany on July 30, 1916, during World War I, according to the National Park Service (NPS).

An explosion at a munitions depot on a pier that connected Black Tom Island to Jersey City rocked the harbor at 2:08 a.m., killing several people and wounding hundreds. Ellis Island was evacuated, and windows as far as Times Square were blown out, according to new Jersey City University research.

Lady Liberty’s arm and torch were injured by flying debris. Germany had been suffering financially and was angered that the U.S. was aiding the British and French with ammunition, so it attacked. When the NPS did renovations in 1984, it decided to replace the torch because the arm’s supporting structure had corroded from rain that fell through the torch’s amber-colored windows.

The new torch is made of unbroken copper that is covered in 24-karat gold leaf. NPS staff still climb a narrow 40-foot ladder to maintain the 16 floodlights that light the torch. Access to the torch was never reopened, but you can see what it’d be like to stand in it with the Statue of Liberty torch live webcam.

You also can get a close-up view of the original torch inside the pedestal lobby. For those who don’t know, the torch symbolizes enlightenment, lighting the way to freedom by showing the path to Liberty, according to the NPS. While not as high up and as shiny as the torch, visitors can visit the crown if they make a reservation in advance at,

Today, the land that was Black Tom Island is a part of Liberty State Park. A plaque commemorating the explosion sits on its site inside a circle of American flags. : Why can’t we go up the Statue of Liberty’s torch? NYCurious | amNewYork

How much did Statue of Liberty cost?

Total Cost of the Statue: $400,000 – The final cost of the copper and steel statue came out to approximately 2 million francs, or $400,000 at the time. Pictured: The Statue of Liberty in scaffolding at its manufacturing site in Paris, 1883.

What is buried under the Statue of Liberty?

Secrets of the Statue Spies. Explosions. Buried treasure. The Statue of Liberty has an exciting past! You can explore all of it at the new Statue of Liberty Museum that opened on Liberty Island in May. Visitors can touch a copy of the statue’s face. They can also learn amazing facts like the ones on these pages.

• The artist who created the statue wanted her to be covered in gold so she would shine.
• But copper was used instead.
• It cost less.
• When construction started in 1885, the statue was reddish brown, like a penny.
• About 25 years later, she had turned green.
• That’s what happens to copper over time.
• The green coating actually protects the copper and keeps it from wearing away.

During World War I (1914-1918), German spies snuck onto a pier in New York Harbor and set off an explosion. Flying debris struck the Statue of Liberty’s arm and torch. Repairs cost more than $100,000. For safety reasons, visitors are no longer allowed into the torch.

• Did you know that a secret box is buried under the Statue of Liberty? Inside is a copy of the U.S.
• Constitution, a portrait of the statue’s designer, and 20 bronze medals, like this one of George Washington.
• Lady Liberty was a gift from France.
• When she arrived in New York Harbor in 1885, she was packed in 200 crates.

It took months to assemble her. But people got a sneak peek at the parts before that. The hand and torch were shown at the Philadelphia World’s Fair in 1876. Visitors paid 50 cents to climb to the top. In 1877, Thomas Edison invented the phonograph, a machine that recorded sound.

Use dates and details from the article to make a timeline of key events in the Statue of Liberty’s history. Include your own illustrations!

Watch the video “The Statue of Liberty” below. Then imagine that you are an immigrant coming to America more than a hundred years ago. Write a diary entry describing your feelings when you see the Statue of Liberty. What does the statue mean to you?

: Secrets of the Statue

How many pieces was the Statue of Liberty broken into?

The Statue of Liberty – She is an icon, a national treasure, and one of the most recognizable figures in the world. Each year millions who cherish her ideals make the journey to experience her history and grandeur in person. She is the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom, inspiration, and hope.

• It was 1865 when Frenchman Édouard de Laboulaye proposed the idea of presenting a monumental gift from the people of France to the people of the United States.
• A n arden t s uppor t er of America, Laboulaye wished to commemorate the centennial of the Declaration of Independence as well as celebrate the close relationship between France and America.

He was equally moved by the recent abolition of slavery in the U.S., which furthered America’s ideals of liberty and freedom. Sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi was in attendance for Laboulaye’s proclamation. Of like mind with Laboulaye’s cause, Bartholdi began conceptualizing the colossal structure that would soon be known as Liberty Enlightening the World,

Bartholdi’s design encompassed much symbolism: her crown representing light with its spikes evoking sun rays extending out to the world; the tablet, inscribed with July 4, 1776 in Roman numerals, noting American independence; to symbolize the end of slavery, Bartholdi placed a broken shackle and chains at the Statue’s foot.

Fundraising and bringing people together have always been integral to Lady Liberty’s history. It began with efforts to finance this unprecedented undertaking. France would be responsible for creating the Statue and assembling it in the United States while the American people would fund and build the pedestal.

To raise funds in France, public fees, various forms of entertainment, and a lottery were used. In the U.S., to finance the pedestal, benefit theatrical events, art exhibitions, auctions, and prizefights were held. Poet Emma Lazarus wrote her famous sonnet The New Colossus in 1883 for an art and literary auction.

Despite these efforts, fundraising for the pedestal went slowly. To spark public action, in 1885, Joseph Pulitzer placed an ad in his paper the New York World inviting readers to donate to the cause. In exchange, Pulitzer printed each donor’s name in the newspaper.

• The public rose to the challenge with 120,000 people donating over $100,000 and securing the remaining funds needed for the Statue’s pedestal.
• Meanwhile in France, Bartholdi required the assistance of an engineer to address structural issues associated with designing such a colossal copper sculpture.

Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, just prior to creating his famed Tower, was engaged to design the massive iron pylon and secondary skeletal framework that allows the Statue’s copper skin to move independently yet stand upright. Construction of the Statue was completed in France in July 1884.

The massive sculpture stood tall above the rooftops of Paris awaiting her voyage across the sea. Back in America that same year architect Richard Morris Hunt was selected to design the Statue’s granite pedestal, and construction got underway. For its trans-Atlantic voyage aboard the frigate Isère, the Statue was reduced to 350 individual pieces and packed in 214 crates.

The ship arrived in New York Harbor on June 17, 1885. While awaiting construction of its pedestal, the Statue remained in pieces on what was then called Bedloe’s Island. The pedestal was completed in April 1886 and finally, on October 28, 1886, President Grover Cleveland oversaw the dedication of the Statue of Liberty in front of thousands of spectators.

The story of the Statue of Liberty and her island has been one of change. For centuries the island was a major source of food for the Lenape native people and later Dutch settlers. In 1807, the U.S. Army deemed the island a military post, constructing an 11-point fort to protect New York Harbor. Later renamed Fort Wood, the structure now serves as the base for the Statue’s pedestal.

The Statue’s own meaning and relevance have evolved with time, as well. Perhaps most notable is the association with welcoming “huddled masses.” In 1903, a plaque baring “The New Colossus” was placed in the pedestal. With that Lady Liberty’s significance grew as an inspiration to immigrants who sailed passed her on their way to America.

What is Lady Liberty’s real name?

A Symbol of Friendship – A national monument of New Jersey and New York, the Statue of Liberty is arguably America’s greatest symbol of freedom and opportunity. Located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the statue commemorates the friendship between the United States and France that began during the American Revolution.

• Her official name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.” The statue – also known as “Lady Liberty” – has many symbolic features.
• Her torch represents liberty.
• In Roman numbers, her tablet reads “July 4, 1776,” America’s independence day.
• Her crown has 25 windows, recognizing the gemstones found on the earth and the heaven’s rays shining over the world.

The rays of her crown symbolize the seven continents and seven seas. At her feet are chains, representing the tyranny of colonial rule from which America escaped.

When did the Statue of Liberty start under construction?

A sketch by Auguste Bartholdi of the Statue of Liberty as a Lighthouse circa 1880 National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM The Early Stages In 1865, a French political intellectual and anti-slavery activist named Edouard de Laboulaye proposed that a statue representing liberty be built for the United States.

1. This monument would honor the United States’ centennial of independence and the friendship with France.
2. French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi supported de Laboulaye’s idea and in 1870 began designing the statue of “Liberty Enlightening the World.” While Bartholdi was designing the Statue, he also took a trip to the United States in 1871.

During the trip, Bartholdi selected Bedloe’s Island as the site for the Statue. Although the island was small, it was visible to every ship entering New York Harbor, which Bartholdi viewed as the “gateway to America.” In 1876, French artisans and craftsmen began constructing the Statue in France under Bartholdi’s direction. An illustration of crates containing the Statue of Liberty moving from the French Navy ship Isère to lighters. The lighters were then transported to Bedloe’s Island. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM To the United States After the Statue was presented to Levi P Morton, the U.S. An illustration of the “rise” of the Statue of Liberty from Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper, October 17, 1885. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM Assembly Once the pedestal was completed in 1886, the Statue was reassembled with surprising speed by a fearless construction crew – many of whom were new immigrants.

1. The first piece of the Statue to be reconstructed was Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel’s iron framework.
2. The rest of the Statue’s elements followed without the use of scaffolding – all construction materials were hoisted up by steam driven cranes and derricks.
3. In order to sculpt the Statue’s skin Eiffel used the repoussé technique developed by Eugene Viollet-le-Duc.

This technique was the process of molding light-weight copper sheets by hammering them onto the Statue’s hallowed wooden framework. The last section to be completed was the Statue of Liberty’s face which remained veiled until the Statue’s dedication. Although Fort Wood remained on Bedloe’s Island, it was not an obstacle in the design, construction, or reassembly of the Statue of Liberty. The Statue amidst smoke from a gun salute during the Statue’s unveiling on October 28, 1886. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM Unveiled On October 28, 1886, the statue of “Liberty Enlightening the World” was officially unveiled. The day’s wet and foggy weather did not stop some one million New Yorkers from turning out to cheer for The Statue of Liberty.

When was the Statue of Liberty donated to the US?

The Statue of Liberty – She is an icon, a national treasure, and one of the most recognizable figures in the world. Each year millions who cherish her ideals make the journey to experience her history and grandeur in person. She is the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom, inspiration, and hope.

• It was 1865 when Frenchman Édouard de Laboulaye proposed the idea of presenting a monumental gift from the people of France to the people of the United States.
• A n arden t s uppor t er of America, Laboulaye wished to commemorate the centennial of the Declaration of Independence as well as celebrate the close relationship between France and America.

He was equally moved by the recent abolition of slavery in the U.S., which furthered America’s ideals of liberty and freedom. Sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi was in attendance for Laboulaye’s proclamation. Of like mind with Laboulaye’s cause, Bartholdi began conceptualizing the colossal structure that would soon be known as Liberty Enlightening the World,

Bartholdi’s design encompassed much symbolism: her crown representing light with its spikes evoking sun rays extending out to the world; the tablet, inscribed with July 4, 1776 in Roman numerals, noting American independence; to symbolize the end of slavery, Bartholdi placed a broken shackle and chains at the Statue’s foot.

Fundraising and bringing people together have always been integral to Lady Liberty’s history. It began with efforts to finance this unprecedented undertaking. France would be responsible for creating the Statue and assembling it in the United States while the American people would fund and build the pedestal.

To raise funds in France, public fees, various forms of entertainment, and a lottery were used. In the U.S., to finance the pedestal, benefit theatrical events, art exhibitions, auctions, and prizefights were held. Poet Emma Lazarus wrote her famous sonnet The New Colossus in 1883 for an art and literary auction.

Despite these efforts, fundraising for the pedestal went slowly. To spark public action, in 1885, Joseph Pulitzer placed an ad in his paper the New York World inviting readers to donate to the cause. In exchange, Pulitzer printed each donor’s name in the newspaper.

The public rose to the challenge with 120,000 people donating over $100,000 and securing the remaining funds needed for the Statue’s pedestal. Meanwhile in France, Bartholdi required the assistance of an engineer to address structural issues associated with designing such a colossal copper sculpture.

Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, just prior to creating his famed Tower, was engaged to design the massive iron pylon and secondary skeletal framework that allows the Statue’s copper skin to move independently yet stand upright. Construction of the Statue was completed in France in July 1884.

The massive sculpture stood tall above the rooftops of Paris awaiting her voyage across the sea. Back in America that same year architect Richard Morris Hunt was selected to design the Statue’s granite pedestal, and construction got underway. For its trans-Atlantic voyage aboard the frigate Isère, the Statue was reduced to 350 individual pieces and packed in 214 crates.

The ship arrived in New York Harbor on June 17, 1885. While awaiting construction of its pedestal, the Statue remained in pieces on what was then called Bedloe’s Island. The pedestal was completed in April 1886 and finally, on October 28, 1886, President Grover Cleveland oversaw the dedication of the Statue of Liberty in front of thousands of spectators.

The story of the Statue of Liberty and her island has been one of change. For centuries the island was a major source of food for the Lenape native people and later Dutch settlers. In 1807, the U.S. Army deemed the island a military post, constructing an 11-point fort to protect New York Harbor. Later renamed Fort Wood, the structure now serves as the base for the Statue’s pedestal.

The Statue’s own meaning and relevance have evolved with time, as well. Perhaps most notable is the association with welcoming “huddled masses.” In 1903, a plaque baring “The New Colossus” was placed in the pedestal. With that Lady Liberty’s significance grew as an inspiration to immigrants who sailed passed her on their way to America.

What is the original meaning of the Statue of Liberty?

Irving Underhill (d.1960), Statue of Liberty by Night, New York City, ca.1930. Museum of the City of New York. X2011.34.2594 The Statue of Liberty, designed by Auguste Bartholdi (1834-1904), was a gift from France as a symbol of American freedom, and has watched over New York Harbor since its dedication on October 28, 1886.

• There have been many claims on the internet and elsewhere that the Statue of Liberty was originally intended to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States following the end of the Civil War, and that the model for the Statue was an African American woman.
• Many sources suggest that the Museum of the City of New York can verify this information, and questions about the Statue’s origins remain among the Museum’s most frequently received inquiries.

The Museum refers these researchers to the Statue of Liberty National Monument, the authority on the Statue. The National Parks Service, who cares for the Monument, has likewise been contacted with researchers seeking to verify these same claims, among others, and has posted a report on its website, addressing these rumors, and sharing their findings, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi (1834-1904). Statue of Liberty, ca.1875. Museum of the City of New York.42.421 Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi (1834-1904). Closeup of Statue of Liberty, Museum of the City of New York.42.421 The sculpture above, accession number 42.421, is cast in bronze, and strongly resembles the Statue as we know it today, aside from the fact it measures just over 21 inches in height.

The statue is signed and dated “Bartholdi 1875.” An additional inscription on the small sculpture reads “Washington, 31 August 1876, No 9939 C,” but the Museum does not have any information shedding light on the meaning of that inscription. The sculpture was a gift of Samuel T. Staines, Esquire, in 1934, but the gift paperwork does not document how Mr.

Staines acquired the model. The other sculpture, shown below, is made from terracotta, and perhaps holds some clues as to how the Museum became associated with the rumors concerning the Statue’s origins. The 19 3/8 inch maquette is estimated to have a date of ca.1870. Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi (1834-1904). Statue of Liberty, ca.1870. Museum of the City of New York.33.386AB Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi (1834-1904). Closeup of Statue of Liberty, ca.1870. Museum of the City of New York.33.386AB This image above shows what may be a broken shackle in her hand, and the close up shows what appears to be chains coming out from the Statue’s robe.

1. However, the Museum has no documentation to interpret the symbolism of these chains.
2. The Statue of Liberty National Monument’s report does make reference to a design similar to this one in “Claim 3,” but as you read on, you’ll see that even the “official” meaning of the statue has been interpreted in various ways over the years.

We therefore leave it up to you to draw your own conclusions! The statue, like any sculpture, is a work of art, and can mean many different things to many different people. Check out the Museum’s online Collections Portal for images of the Statue of Liberty, especially this one depicting her arm and torch on display in Madison Square Park while money was being raised to complete the statue.

What year was the Statue of Liberty refurbished?

Foundation Funding In 1982, four years before the Statue’s centennial anniversary, President Ronald Reagan appointed Lee Iacocca, the Chairman of Chrysler Corporation, to head the Statue of Liberty – Ellis Island Foundation. The Foundation was created to lead the private sector effort and raise the funds for the renovation and preservation of the Statue for its centennial in 1986. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM A worker repairing the Statue’s crown, December 10, 1985. National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM A worker inside the Statue’s interior making improvements during the 1980s restoration. Frank Depalo, National Park Service, Statue of Liberty NM A worker near the Statue’s face during restoration circa 1984. Workers repaired holes in the copper skin and removed layers of paint from the interior of the copper skin and internal iron structure.

They replaced the rusting iron armature bars (which joined the copper skin to the Statue’s internal skeleton) with stainless steel bars. The flame and upper portion of the torch had been severely damaged by water and was replaced with an exact replica of Bartholdi’s original torch. The torch was gilded according to Bartholdi’s original plans.

The restoration was completed in 1986 and the Statue’s centennial was celebrated on July 4 with fireworks and fanfare. On July 5th, a new Statue of Liberty exhibit opened in the base of the pedestal.